Gaming is one of those industries that keeps striving towards a peak that doesn’t seem to exist. Every time a new trend or game engine is released, it improves exponentially on the ones before it. The result is a vibrant industry embracing the latest and greatest in cutting-edge technologies. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some tech trends to keep an eye on to improve your gaming experience. From mobile gaming to VR and everything in between, here is everything you need to know.
Virtual Reality
First on our list of emerging gaming trends is virtual reality (VR). While it was a slow burn at first, the popularity of VR titles has steadily increased over the past decade. Today, the incorporation of VR graphics and affordable headsets allows players to fully immerse themselves in their favorite games. Be on the lookout for future games designed specifically for virtual reality.
Machine Learning And Artificial Intelligence
You’ve likely heard the terms machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) before, but perhaps not in regards to gaming. Just as they’re revolutionizing the way we do business in all sorts of sectors, AI and ML are making it easier to build vibrant, thriving worlds for players to explore. AI is being used to create NPCs for the player to interact with, making them feel more real and heightening immersion. ML allows games to learn from player decisions and adjust the world subtly to suit their taste.
Mobile Gaming
Mobile gaming isn’t necessarily an emerging trend, but it is a quickly developing one. The industry is expected to reach roughly $120bn by 2027, with an estimated 1.8 billion users taking part. But what exactly are players doing on their phones, and what can we expect moving forward?
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Role-playing games are also increasing their player base on mobile devices. Titles like Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis and Honkai: Star Rail are two examples of the mobile RPGs that make up this developing industry, and things like machine learning and artificial intelligence are being used to improve the player experience even on smaller screens.
Cloud Gaming
Cloud gaming allows gamers to play on numerous different devices without purchasing a dedicated console. Instead of requiring players to purchase a PlayStation, for example, to gain access to new games, cloud gaming allows players to stream the game from any compatible device. This includes TVs, tablets, computers and smartphones. Cloud gaming also makes it easy for users to play the same game in multiple different locations without losing any progress.
Live Streaming
Live streaming has been around for a long time, but it is only relatively recently that it has become a large part of games themselves. An increasing number of titles are including chat-responsive features that allow a streamer’s chat to control the game as the streamer plays. Even more are utilizing mechanics that change a streamer’s camera settings, including applying filters to simulate things happening in the game. This not only increases engagement but also allows viewers to immerse themselves in the gameplay experience.
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An increasing number of games are including social elements that make it easy to find like-minded players and build friendships. From in-game chat options to forums and meetups, social gaming will most likely be a genre to watch in the coming years.
What do you think about our emerging gaming trends? Is there anything you think we’re missing? Keep an eye on this spot for updates in the future!